A CAMPAIGN to put school milk back in pupils' hands has just kicked off.

A CAMPAIGN to put school milk back in pupils' hands has just kicked off.

But Kirklees schoolchildren aged seven and under already get access to milk every day.

This compares with only around a quarter of primary schools nationally receiving European Union-subsidised milk for five to 11-year-olds.

The Dairy Industry Association is delivering free milk to hundreds of primary schools, to give children a healthy and nutritious alternative to sugary drinks.

Research conducted for the campaign shows that although children know about healthy eating and drinking they still go for junk food, given the choice.

Nearly three-quarters would drink cola, squash or lemonade - even though 94% know that milk or water are healthier.

Janet Rayner, Kirklees Council's contracts and support services manager for lifelong learning, said: "Council policy on school milk is that it is made available to all children under seven.

"Those receiving free school meals get their milk free, while others have to pay £4.50 per term."

Milk is also offered to children in special schools. Ms Rayner added that 138 of Kirklees' schools serve milk to their young children in either third of a pint bottles or cartons.

"The take-up by children who pay for their milk is also very good," she said. She also said children were taught about the importance of healthy eating in the curriculum and the council was always looking at ways of increasing take-up.

A carton of milk provides a six-year-old with half the daily calcium need.